Gary Keller and Jay Papasan

English

Hungarian

Step 1: The One Thing

The first step is finding your one thing. The authors explain that this is the thing that you are passionate about, that you can do better than anyone else, and that can have the most positive impact on your life. If you can identify your one thing, you will have more clarity and direction when working towards your goals.

Step 2: The Domino Effect

The second step is understanding the domino effect. The authors use the analogy of a line of dominos, and how when the first domino falls, it sets off a chain reaction that can ultimately lead to extraordinary results. They explain that if you focus on your one thing, it can have a domino effect on other areas of your life, leading to great success.

Step 3: The Focusing Question

The third step is asking the focusing question. The authors encourage asking yourself the question: “What is the one thing I can do, such that by doing it, everything else will be easier or unnecessary?” This question helps you identify your one thing and prioritize your actions towards it.

Step 4: The Success Habit

The fourth step is developing the success habit. The authors explain that success is not a one-time event, but a habit that needs to be developed and maintained. They suggest developing a routine and scheduling time for your one thing every day.

Step 5: Purposeful Time Blocking

The fifth step is purposeful time blocking. The authors advise setting aside time each day for your one thing and making it a priority. They suggest blocking out time in your schedule and avoiding distractions during this time.

Step 6: The Accountability Effect

The sixth and final step is the accountability effect. The authors explain that having someone to be accountable to can be a powerful motivator. They suggest finding a partner or mentor to hold you accountable for achieving your goals and staying on track.

Overall, The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results is a straightforward and practical guide to achieving success. The book emphasizes the importance of identifying your one thing and focusing on it, as well as developing good habits and routines. By following the steps outlined in the book, readers can increase their productivity, achieve their goals, and ultimately live a more fulfilling life.

Title: The One Thing

Chapter one of “The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan introduces the concept of “the one thing.” The authors explain that, in any given situation, there is always one thing that is the most important, the most impactful, and the most effective. This one thing is the key to achieving extraordinary results, and it should be the focus of all our efforts.

The authors argue that, in today’s fast-paced world, we are constantly bombarded with distractions and demands on our time and attention. We are pulled in multiple directions, trying to juggle multiple tasks and responsibilities. This can lead to a sense of overwhelm and a lack of focus, which can ultimately hinder our ability to achieve our goals.

To overcome these challenges and achieve extraordinary results, the authors suggest that we need to identify and focus on our one thing. This means figuring out what is most important to us, and then dedicating our time, energy, and resources to that one thing above all else.

The authors provide examples of successful individuals who have used this approach to achieve extraordinary results in various fields, from business to sports to art. They also provide practical tips for identifying your one thing, such as asking yourself questions like, “What’s the one thing I can do that will make everything else easier or unnecessary?”

Overall, chapter one of “The One Thing” sets the stage for the rest of the book, introducing the concept of the one thing and emphasizing its importance in achieving our goals. By focusing on our one thing, we can overcome distractions and achieve extraordinary results, both in our personal and professional lives.

Chapter 2: The Domino Effect

This chapter introduces the concept of the domino effect – that by starting with a small action, you can create a chain reaction of larger accomplishments. The authors use the metaphor of dominos, saying that a single small domino can knock down a dominos that is 50% larger than it. In the same way, small actions can lead to big results.

The key to exploiting the domino effect is to find your “domino,” that is, the one thing that will start a chain reaction towards your ultimate goal. This requires clarity on what that goal is, and identifying the core priorities that will get you there. Once you identify the first domino, you want to position it so that it will knock down the next, and so on, in a smooth and efficient chain reaction.

The authors highlight that the domino effect requires momentum and that the best way to create momentum is by focusing on one thing at a time – starting with the first domino. They caution against trying to knock over too many dominos at once and advise instead to focus all your energy on the first one.

The authors also recognize that life will inevitably disrupt a domino routine, and it’s okay to have occasional setbacks. However, they stress the importance of getting back on track as soon as possible and not letting small disruptions become obstacles to progress.

Finally, the authors note that the domino effect is not just about doing things sequentially – it’s also about finding the right order of actions. In some cases, you may need to prioritize an action that doesn’t seem like the natural first step, but that will set up a better chain reaction in the long run.

Overall, this chapter emphasizes the power of small actions and how they can lead to big results through the domino effect. By identifying your one thing and aligning it with your ultimate goal, you can achieve success more efficiently and with less friction.

Chapter 3: Multitasking is a lie

The third chapter of “The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan offers a clear explanation of why multitasking doesn’t work and how it can actually hinder our productivity.

The authors begin by pointing out that, in today’s fast-paced society, multitasking has become almost a badge of honor. We often brag about how many things we can do at once, as if it were a sign of our efficiency and skill. However, the reality is quite different.

Studies have shown that our brain’s capacity for attention is limited, and that trying to focus on too many things at once actually impairs our ability to get things done. The authors use the metaphor of juggling to illustrate this point: just as a skilled juggler can only juggle a limited number of balls at once, our brain can only focus on a limited number of tasks before it gets overwhelmed.

Furthermore, the authors argue that multitasking can actually be counterproductive in the long run. When we try to do too many things at once, we may get a temporary rush of adrenaline, which makes us feel energized and productive. However, this feeling is often short-lived, and it can quickly give way to stress, fatigue, and burnout. Moreover, when we try to do too many things at once, we are more likely to make mistakes or forget important details, which can lead to even more stress and frustration.

So, what’s the solution? The authors suggest that we should focus on one thing at a time. By choosing the most important task and giving it our undivided attention, we can achieve much better results than if we try to tackle multiple tasks simultaneously. This doesn’t mean that we have to ignore all other tasks or put them off indefinitely; rather, it means that we should prioritize our tasks and work on them sequentially, giving each one our full attention before moving on to the next.

In conclusion, the third chapter of “The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results” makes a compelling case against multitasking. While the idea of doing many things at once may seem appealing, it is actually counterproductive and can lead to stress, fatigue, and burnout. Instead, we should focus on one thing at a time and give it our full attention, which can lead to much better results and a more satisfying sense of accomplishment.

Chapter 4: The Three Commitments

The fourth chapter of “The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan focuses on the importance of making and sticking to three commitments to achieve long-lasting success.

The first commitment is to choose your One Thing and make it a priority. This requires identifying a specific goal that is truly important to you and committing to making it your top priority. By focusing on one thing that matters most, you can avoid becoming overwhelmed and ensure that your efforts are focused and effective.

The second commitment is to embrace the fact that achieving your One Thing requires sacrifice. To achieve something great, you need to be willing to give up other things that may distract or detract from your goal. This can be challenging, but it is essential in order to stay focused and achieve your long-term objectives.

The third and final commitment is to stay accountable. This involves tracking your progress, setting measurable goals, and regularly reviewing your results in order to stay motivated and on track towards achieving your One Thing. It is important to remain committed and accountable, even when the going gets tough or obstacles arise along the way.

Overall, the key message of this chapter is that achieving spectacular results requires choosing your One Thing, embracing sacrifice, and committing to staying accountable. By making and sticking to these commitments, you can effectively focus your efforts and achieve extraordinary results that last.

Chapter 5: Build a Habit

In this chapter, the authors emphasize the importance of building habits to achieve success in any aspect of life. They argue that the key to building a habit is to focus on doing something consistently, rather than trying to achieve perfection.

The authors explain that forming a habit is a three-step process: cue, routine, and reward. The cue serves as a trigger for the routine, which is the habit itself. The reward is something positive that reinforces the habit. The authors also stress the importance of creating a supportive environment that will help you maintain your habit.

To build a habit, the authors recommend starting small and gradually increasing your level of commitment. They suggest choosing one thing to focus on and setting specific goals that are achievable within a certain timeframe. They also caution against trying to form too many habits at once, as this can be overwhelming and lead to failure.

The authors conclude the chapter by highlighting the benefits of building good habits. They argue that habits are a powerful tool for achieving success because they help to eliminate decision fatigue and allow you to focus your energy on more important tasks. They also suggest that building good habits can have a positive impact on your personal life, as well as your professional life.

Overall, the key takeaway from this chapter is that building habits is essential for achieving success and that the most effective way to do so is by focusing on consistency over perfection. By starting small, setting achievable goals, and creating a supportive environment, you can develop the habits that will lead you to achieve your goals and live a more fulfilling life.

Chapter 6: The Domino Effect

In chapter six of “The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results,” Gary Keller and Jay Papasan discuss the concept of the “domino effect” and how it relates to achieving success. They explain that just like how a single domino can knock over another one that is one and a half times larger, a small action can lead to a chain reaction of larger accomplishments.

The authors advise readers to focus on their one thing and identify the domino that, when knocked over, will lead to achieving their ultimate goal. They suggest breaking down the process into smaller, achievable steps and using them to create momentum towards the bigger goal. By focusing on the smallest domino first, individuals can gain the confidence and experience needed to tackle larger and more complex tasks.

Keller and Papasan emphasize that the key to the domino effect is taking action and not getting bogged down by overthinking or analysis paralysis. They encourage readers to make a plan, take the first step, and let the dominoes fall into place.

The authors also discuss the importance of consistency and building habits that support progress towards the one thing. They provide examples of successful individuals who used the domino effect to achieve their goals, including comedian Jerry Seinfeld who aimed to write one joke a day, and author Stephen King who committed to writing 1,000 words per day.

In conclusion, chapter six of “The One Thing” highlights the power of the domino effect in achieving success. By identifying the small actions that will lead to achieving their one thing, creating momentum through consistent effort, and not getting bogged down by overthinking, individuals can experience a chain reaction of accomplishments that lead to extraordinary results.

Chapter 7: The Thief of Productivity

In this chapter, the authors introduce the concept of multitasking as the thief of productivity. They discuss how we are often taught to believe that doing multiple things at once is efficient and productive, but that this is a myth. They explain that multitasking actually leads to decreased productivity, increased stress levels, and even a loss of IQ points. The authors reference several studies that demonstrate the negative effects of multitasking, including one study that showed that people who tried to do two or more things at once took up to 50% longer to get them all done.

The authors suggest that the antidote to multitasking is to focus on the one thing that will make the most significant impact on your goals. They explain that when we focus on a single task, we are able to enter a state of flow, which is a state of deep concentration and focus. This state of flow leads to increased productivity, creativity, and fulfillment.

The authors also discuss how multitasking can be a problem not just in our work lives, but also in our personal lives. They talk about the importance of being present in the moment and giving our full attention to the people and experiences in our lives. They suggest that we set aside designated time for work and designated time for rest and relaxation, rather than trying to do it all at once.

The authors conclude the chapter by discussing the importance of saying no to distractions and focusing on our priorities. They suggest that we should create boundaries and set aside dedicated time for our most important tasks, rather than allowing ourselves to be pulled in multiple directions.

In summary, Chapter 7 of “The One Thing” highlights the negative effects of multitasking and emphasizes the importance of focusing on our priorities and the one thing that will make the most significant impact on our goals. By avoiding multitasking and entering a state of flow, we can increase our productivity and fulfillment in both our work and personal lives.

Chapter 8: The Four Thieves of Productivity

In this chapter, the authors discuss the four main distractions or “thieves” that can derail productivity and prevent individuals from achieving their one thing. These thieves are:

1. Inability to Say “No”: The authors emphasize the importance of saying “no” to any requests or tasks that do not align with one’s top priority, as this can sap time and energy away from completing the most important task.

2. Fear of Chaos: The authors argue that being adaptable and embracing chaos is necessary in order to achieve one’s one thing, and that attempting to maintain complete control over every detail will only lead to wasted time and missed opportunities.

3. Poor Health Habits: The authors stress the importance of maintaining good physical health in order to be more productive, alert, and focused. They suggest that taking care of one’s body with regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and sufficient rest can increase one’s ability to achieve their one thing.

4. Environment Doesn’t Support Your Goals: The authors explain that one’s environment can have a significant impact on their ability to achieve their one thing. They suggest that creating an environment that is conducive to productivity, whether it be through setting up a dedicated workspace or minimizing distractions, can greatly increase one’s chance of success.

The authors suggest that by identifying and addressing these common productivity “thieves,” individuals can more effectively focus on their one thing and achieve extraordinary results. They stress that maintaining a clear focus and dedicating oneself to the pursuit of one’s top priority is critical to success, and that allowing oneself to become distracted by these “thieves” can only hold one back from reaching their full potential.

“The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan is a book that emphasizes the importance of focusing on one thing to achieve extraordinary results. In the ninth chapter titled “The Balanced Life Myth,” the authors challenge the common belief that having a balanced life is the key to happiness and success.

The chapter opens by stating that trying to balance all aspects of our life – work, family, health, hobbies, etc. – is akin to spinning plates, which is a futile exercise. The authors argue that the pervasive belief in the balanced life myth stems from the mistaken notion that all aspects of our life are equally important and require equal attention. They argue that this is not true and that some activities have a higher domino effect than others.

According to the authors, the key to achieving extraordinary results is to identify the one thing that is most important and focus on it to the exclusion of everything else. This one thing should be your priority, and all other activities should be scheduled around it. The authors argue that when we try to balance everything, we end up making trade-offs that are not in our best interest, and we fail to achieve our goals.

One of the reasons why the balanced life myth is so pervasive, according to the authors, is that it is often championed by successful people who have already achieved their goals. They argue that these individuals have a different perspective and a different set of circumstances than those who are still on the journey towards success. As a result, their advice may not be relevant or applicable to everyone.

The authors suggest that instead of trying to balance everything, we should focus on being present in the moment and giving our full attention to the task at hand. This can help us be more efficient and effective in our work and personal life, allowing us to achieve our goals more quickly.

In conclusion, “The Balanced Life Myth” challenges the conventional wisdom that a balanced life is the key to happiness and success. The authors argue that focusing on one thing is the key to achieving extraordinary results and that we should prioritize and schedule our activities accordingly. By doing so, we can be more efficient and effective in our work and personal life and achieve our goals more quickly.

Chapter 10: The Three Commitments

In chapter 10 of “The One Thing,” the authors talk about the three commitments you need to make in order to achieve extraordinary results: clarity, accountability, and productivity.

The first commitment is clarity. You need to have clarity about what your one thing is and what you want to achieve. Without clarity, you won’t know what you need to do to achieve your goal. The authors suggest asking yourself the focusing question every day to help you maintain clarity.

The second commitment is accountability. You need to hold yourself accountable for achieving your one thing. This means being responsible for your actions and not making excuses for why you’re not getting things done. The authors suggest finding someone who can hold you accountable and help motivate you when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

The third commitment is productivity. You need to be productive in order to achieve your one thing. This means focusing on your most important work first and minimizing distractions. The authors suggest creating a habit of time blocking and using a calendar to prioritize your work.

The authors also stress the importance of having a growth mindset when it comes to achieving your one thing. This means being open to learning from your mistakes and continuously striving to improve.

In summary, to achieve extraordinary results, you need to make three commitments: clarity, accountability, and productivity. You need to have clarity about what your one thing is and hold yourself accountable for achieving it. You also need to be productive by focusing on your most important work and minimizing distractions. Finally, you need to have a growth mindset and be willing to learn from your mistakes.

Chapter 11: The Path to Great Answers

In this chapter, Keller and Papasan assert that asking the right questions is vital in finding answers, especially when it comes to achieving your goals. Asking good questions is an art, and it’s something that requires practice, but it’s a skill that can be learned. To this end, the authors outline three steps that can help you ask better questions that lead to great answers.

The first step is to ask the right question. As the authors explain, the quality of your answers is determined by the quality of your questions. Asking the right question is important because it helps you focus your attention and energy on what’s most important. The authors suggest asking questions that are specific, measurable, and time-bounded. These types of questions will help you establish clear goals and track your progress in achieving them.

The second step is to use models. Models are frameworks that help you understand complex concepts. They provide a way of breaking down a problem into smaller parts and identifying the most critical factors influencing the outcome. The authors suggest using models to help you ask better questions, especially when dealing with complex issues. Models help to organize your thoughts and focus your attention on what’s most important.

The third and final step is to practice. Asking good questions is a skill that you can develop with practice. The authors suggest asking questions that challenge your assumptions and help you think creatively. They also recommend practicing with other people by engaging in dialogue and debate. This way, you can learn from other people’s perspectives and expand your own understanding of the topic.

In conclusion, asking good questions is crucial in achieving your goals. By asking the right questions, using models, and practicing, you can become better at finding great answers. As the authors note, “The ability to ask great questions is a critical skill for success in all areas of life.”

Chapter 12: The Four Thieves of Productivity

In this chapter, the authors focus on four common obstacles that can get in the way of productivity and progress towards achieving your goals. These obstacles are called “the four thieves of productivity” and they are:

1. Inability to say “no”
2. Fear of chaos
3. Poor health habits
4. Environment doesn’t support your goals

The first thief of productivity is the inability to say “no”. This can happen when we take on too many responsibilities or commit to too many projects, leaving us with little time to focus on the most important tasks. To combat this, the authors suggest prioritizing your to-do list and focusing on one thing at a time.

The second thief is the fear of chaos. This can manifest as a need for control or a reluctance to embrace change. However, the authors argue that sometimes chaos is necessary for growth and progress. They advise embracing the uncertainty and learning to adapt to changing circumstances.

The third thief is poor health habits. Without proper sleep, exercise, and nutrition, it is difficult to perform at a high level. The authors stress the importance of taking care of your body to ensure maximum productivity and success.

Finally, the fourth thief is an environment that doesn’t support your goals. This can be physical, such as a cluttered workspace, or social, such as spending time with people who don’t support your ambitions. To combat this, the authors suggest re-evaluating your surroundings and making changes to create a more supportive environment.

Overall, the authors emphasize the importance of identifying and overcoming these four thieves of productivity to maximize your potential and achieve extraordinary results.

Chapter 13: The Four Thieves of Productivity

In this chapter, Keller and Papasan discuss the four main things that hinder our productivity: inability to say “no,” fear of chaos, poor health habits, and unrealistic expectations. They argue that we need to identify these thieves of productivity and work to overcome them in order to achieve our goals.

The first thief is the inability to say “no.” Many people struggle with this because they want to be helpful or don’t want to disappoint others. However, constantly saying “yes” to everything can lead to a lack of focus and overwhelm. The authors suggest that we need to prioritize our own goals and learn to say “no” gracefully when something doesn’t align with them.

The second thief is the fear of chaos. When we feel like we don’t have control over our environment or situation, it can create anxiety and distract us from our work. However, the authors argue that chaos is actually necessary for creativity and growth. They suggest embracing chaos and using it as a catalyst for innovation and problem-solving.

The third thief is poor health habits. Our physical and mental well-being plays a crucial role in our productivity and ability to achieve our goals. The authors suggest developing good habits such as exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate rest to support our bodies and minds.

The fourth and final thief is unrealistic expectations. When we set expectations that are too high or try to do too much at once, we can become overwhelmed and discouraged. The authors suggest setting realistic and achievable goals and breaking them down into manageable tasks.

Overall, the authors emphasize the importance of identifying and overcoming these four thieves of productivity in order to achieve extraordinary results. By focusing on our priorities, embracing chaos, supporting our physical and mental well-being, and setting realistic goals, we can overcome these obstacles and accomplish more than we ever thought possible.

Chapter 14: The Journey

In this chapter, the authors emphasize the importance of enjoying the journey towards achieving our goals. They argue that it’s not just about reaching the destination but rather about appreciating the process and making the most of every step along the way.

The authors provide a great analogy of climbing a mountain. They say that if we only focus on reaching the summit, we risk missing out on all the beautiful scenery, wildlife, and other unique experiences. But, if we take the time to enjoy the journey, we can appreciate every moment and come away with a sense of fulfillment.

Furthermore, the authors suggest that the journey is important because it prepares us for what’s at the top. They compare it to lifting weights, where the process of lifting heavy weights may seem daunting and unpleasant, but it’s necessary to build strength and endurance for the ultimate goal of being fit and healthy.

In addition, the authors give us some tips on how to enjoy the journey. The first tip is to embrace boredom, which means that we need to accept that some parts of the journey will be dull, repetitive, or monotonous. But, by doing so, we can develop mental toughness and stay disciplined.

The second tip is to practice self-reflection and self-awareness. This means that we need to regularly take the time to ask ourselves important questions and reflect on our progress towards our goals. By doing so, we can stay motivated and learn from our successes and failures.

The third tip is to focus on the present moment. This means that we shouldn’t dwell on the past or worry about the future but rather focus on what we can do today to move closer to our goals. By staying present, we can appreciate every step of the journey and make the most of each opportunity.

In conclusion, the authors remind us that the journey is just as important as the destination. By embracing the process, practicing self-reflection, and staying present, we can make the most of our journey towards achieving our goals and come away with a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.

Chapter 15: The Four Thieves of Productivity

In this chapter, the authors discuss the four thieves of productivity that often prevent people from achieving their goals. These thieves are:

1. Inability to Say “No”: One of the biggest obstacles to productivity is the inability to say “no” to distractions and requests that don’t align with our goals. The authors suggest that we need to become comfortable with saying “no” in order to protect our time and focus on what’s most important.

2. Fear of Chaos: Many people are afraid of chaos and uncertainty and as a result, they try to micromanage everything in their lives. This approach can be incredibly draining and counterproductive. Instead, the authors suggest that we need to embrace chaos and accept that there will always be some level of uncertainty in our lives.

3. Poor Health Habits: Poor health habits such as lack of sleep, poor diet, and lack of exercise can have a major impact on our productivity. The authors stress the importance of taking care of ourselves and our bodies in order to perform at our best.

4. Environment: Our environment can also impact our productivity. The authors suggest that we need to create an environment that is conducive to our goals and that can help us stay focused and motivated.

Overall, the authors argue that these four thieves can prevent us from achieving our goals and that it’s important to be aware of them and take steps to overcome them. By learning to say “no”, embracing chaos, taking care of our health, and creating a productive environment, we can increase our productivity and achieve extraordinary results.

Chapter 16: Live with Purpose

In this chapter, the authors emphasize the importance of living with purpose and aligning our actions with our goals in order to achieve extraordinary results.

The chapter begins with a quote from Abraham Lincoln, who said, “I will prepare and someday my chance will come.” The authors use this quote to illustrate the point that success is not a matter of luck or chance, but rather a product of preparation and purposeful action.

They go on to explain that living with purpose requires clarity about what we want to achieve and a commitment to take action towards those goals. This involves identifying our “One Thing” and aligning all of our actions and decisions with that goal.

The authors offer some practical advice for living with purpose, including the need to prioritize our time and energy, focus on what matters most, and say “no” to distractions and non-essential tasks. They also highlight the importance of surrounding ourselves with supportive people who share our values and goals.

Finally, the authors discuss the concept of “balance” and explain that achieving balance in our lives does not mean dividing our time equally between work, family, and other pursuits. Rather, it means making conscious choices about how we allocate our time and energy based on our priorities and values.

In summary, the key message of this chapter is that living with purpose is essential for achieving extraordinary results. By prioritizing our time and energy, focusing on what matters most, and aligning our actions with our goals, we can create a life of purpose and fulfillment.